FLINT HILLS GOBBLERS YOUTH ESSAY CONTEST DEADLINE MARCH 8

EMPORIA — Now in its tenth year, the Flint Hills Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Youth Essay Contest challenges youngsters to write an essay and win a two-day guided spring turkey hunt and a new turkey shotgun. This year, in 500 words or less, entrants must answer the question, “How can young hunters become involved in helping ensure our hunting heritage and traditions?”

Youth 16 years and younger from Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage, Wabaunsee, and Woodson counties are eligible to participate. Participants must have completed a hunter education course, be available to hunt during the 2012 spring turkey season, and purchase a Kansas spring turkey hunting permit if they win. Youth 16 years old will also need a valid Kansas hunting license. All past winners have harvested a gobbler.

In addition to the shotgun and guided hunt, the winner will receive a turkey hunting vest and other turkey hunting items donated by Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply, Emporia.

Essay submissions must include name, age, address, and phone number and be sent to Gib Rhodes, 1643 360th St., Madison, KS 66860, or Shelley Sparks, 1789 Road B5, Emporia, KS 66801. The entry deadline is March 8, and the winner of the contest will be notified March 11. Lodging will be provided if the winner is not from Emporia or the surrounding area. A parent or guardian is encouraged to accompany the youth on this hunt. For more information, phone Rhodes at 620-437-2012.

The contest is co-sponsored by the Flint Hills Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Lyon County Hunter Education Program, Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply of Emporia, and the Conrad Carlson Charitable Foundation.-30-